Ascension is the first part of the concept album The Afterman that will be released in two separate full-length volumes.

The Afterman sees the band perfecting their powerhouse progressive rock, soul and even pop landscapes. The dual release also marks the return of original drummer Josh Eppard, who the band parted ways with in 2006, bringing with him his benchmark percussive grooves. Coheed And Cambria self-financed and co-produced The Afterman, alongside Micael Birnbaum and Chris Bittner, who produced the band's first 3 albums, in Woodstock, NY. The album was mixed by Rich Costey (Muse, The Shins, Foster The People) and Ryan Williams (30 Seconds To Mars).